On a penalty kick, where must all players be except the kicker and the goalkeeper?

During a penalty kick, the Laws of the Game specify that all players, except for the kicker and the goalkeeper, must be positioned outside the penalty area. This is crucial for maintaining order and ensuring that the kick is taken fairly.

Positioning players outside the penalty area prevents any interference with the penalty kick, allowing the kicker to take the shot without being crowded or distracted by other players. This rule serves to create a clear and unobstructed opportunity for the kicker to score a goal.

The rationale for this enforcement is to ensure that the focus of the play remains on the penalty taker and the goalkeeper, thereby emphasizing the significance of this set piece within the game. By keeping all other players outside the area, it helps to maintain the spirit of fair competition and integrity in the execution of the penalty kick.